How many hours can I be allocated for golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga national park?

Golden monkey tracking is an exciting activity that takes place in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This unique experience involves trekking through the forest on foot to find habituated golden monkey families. Once you find them, you can spend one hour observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. The golden monkeys are unique to Uganda and can only be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is the smallest national park in the country.

Located in the Virunga Mountains, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is in southwestern Uganda, specifically in the Kisoro district. This park is special because it is the only protected area in Uganda that is home to the endangered golden monkeys. It is also one of only two national parks in Uganda where you can trek and see the endangered mountain gorillas.

Established in 1991, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park covers an area of 33.7 square kilometers (about 13 square miles). It is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, making it a great destination for nature lovers and hikers. The park has various habitats, including montane forests, bamboo forests, and alpine vegetation, which support a range of wildlife, such as mountain gorillas, golden monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, bushbucks, buffaloes, and many bird species.

Golden Monkey Trekking Experience

When you go for golden monkey trekking, the experience usually begins early in the morning at the park headquarters. You will receive a briefing from a park ranger about the rules and expectations for the trek. After the briefing, you will start the trek with your guide. The time it takes to find the golden monkeys can vary from 30 minutes to three hours, depending on where the monkeys are located, as they move around looking for food.

Once you locate the golden monkeys, you will have one hour to observe them. During this time, you can watch them feed, play, and groom each other, and this is also a great opportunity to take photos and learn about their behavior. It’s important to maintain a distance of at least 5 meters (about 16 feet) from the monkeys to avoid disturbing them. The maximum group size for this activity is limited to eight people to reduce the impact on the monkeys and their environment.

Although the trek is not as physically demanding as gorilla trekking, it does require a moderate level of fitness and mobility. For those interested in a more extended experience, Mgahinga also offers a golden monkey habituation safari, which allows you to spend up to four hours with the monkeys. This option requires a different permit and is subject to availability.

Cost of a Golden Monkey Trekking Permit

To participate in golden monkey trekking, you need a permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The cost for a single permit is $100 for foreign non-residents, $100 for foreign residents, and 60,000 UGX for East African citizens. This price includes park entrance fees, the one-hour encounter with the golden monkeys, and the services of a park guide.

How to Book Golden Monkey Trekking Permits

You can book your golden monkey permits in two ways: directly through the Uganda Wildlife Authority by contacting their offices or through a trusted tour operator. It is recommended to book your permits 2 to 4 months in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments, especially during the peak tourist seasons in June to September and December to February, when permits tend to sell out quickly.

What to Bring for Your Trekking Safari

To ensure a safe and enjoyable golden monkey trekking experience, it is essential to pack the right gear. Here’s a list of items to consider bringing:

• Camera with extra batteries for capturing moments.
• Insect repellent to protect against bites.
• Energy snacks and drinking water to keep your energy up.
• Walking stick for support while trekking.
• Backpack to carry your essentials.
• Hiking boots or strong shoes to keep your feet dry.
• Waterproof rain jacket to protect against rain.
• Long-sleeved shirt and trousers to stay warm and avoid insect bites.
• Quick-drying trekking shirt.
• Water bottle or hydration pack.
• Hand sanitizer and a first-aid kit.
• Cash for tips and souvenirs.

Best Time for Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden monkey trekking can be done year-round, but the best time is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During these months, there is less rainfall, making the hiking trails easier to navigate. The clear skies and thinner vegetation also allow for better views of the golden monkeys and other wildlife.

Though trekking is possible in the rainy season (March to May and September to November), trails can be muddy and slippery. However, the rainy season has its advantages, such as fewer tourists, making for a more peaceful experience. The lush green environment also makes the forest more beautiful for photography.

Accommodations Near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has various accommodation options for visitors. You can choose from luxury, mid-range, or budget options. Some recommended lodges include:

• Mount Gahinga Lodge
• Traveler’s Rest Hotel-Kisoro
• Mucha Hotel Kisoro
• Montana Guest House
• Ichumbi Hotel
• Mgahinga Gorilla Triangle Lodge
• Ikaze Cottages
• Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
• Mutanda Lake Resort
• Kisoro Tourist Hotel
• Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp
• Mgahinga Rest Camp

Getting to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

You can reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park by road or air. If you choose road transport, the drive from Kampala takes about 9 to 10 hours through Masaka and Kisoro. Alternatively, you can drive from Kigali, Rwanda, to Kisoro, which takes around 4 hours via the Cyanika or Katuna border.

For air transport, you can book flights with Aero Link Uganda from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kisoro Airstrip and then connect to the park headquarters.

Other Activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Besides golden monkey trekking, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offers other thrilling activities. You can also go gorilla trekking, where you will spend an hour with mountain gorillas, or enjoy bird watching to see various bird species. For hiking enthusiasts, the park provides opportunities to explore Mount Sabinyo, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Muhabura.

Finally, you can immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Batwa people, who used to live in the forest before it became a national park.

At Candrem East African Holidays, our team of experts is available to help you plan your safari. Contact us for more information and to create an unforgettable adventure in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.